Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced; Fresh basil leaves; Oregano, for garnish; Olive oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Celebration Collection

I love making this heart-shaped pizza to celebrate special moments, whether it's a romantic dinner or just a fun family night. Shaping this pizza into a heart is not only cute but also a wonderful way to express love through food. The combination of gooey mozzarella and a crispy crust makes each bite a delight. I always enjoy customizing the toppings to fit our tastes, making it a personalized treat that everyone can enjoy. It's a playful and delicious dish that truly brings smiles to the table.

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:09:34.946Z

When I first made this heart-shaped pizza for my partner, I was amazed by how a simple shape could create such joy. Using fresh mozzarella and homemade sauce made all the difference in flavor and texture. The cheese melts beautifully, giving a lovely stretch that you can show off when you take a slice. I found that using a rolling pin to shape the dough into a heart is the best way to achieve a perfect look.

Through trial and error, I learned that baking the pizza on a preheated stone can enhance the crust's crispiness, making it even more enjoyable. We topped ours with fresh basil and a sprinkle of oregano, which added a refreshing zing to each bite. This pizza has now become a favorite in our household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape perfect for romantic occasions
Deliciously melted mozzarella that stretches with every slice
Customizable toppings for everyone's tastes
Crispy crust paired with flavorful sauce

      

Dough Tips for Perfect Pizza

The dough is the foundation of any great pizza, and ensuring it’s well-prepared is essential for achieving that delightful crispy crust. When combining your dry ingredients, make sure to use a high-quality all-purpose flour that has a good protein content, which contributes to the dough's elasticity. Knead the dough until it is smooth and slightly tacky—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to overdo it, or the crust will become tough.

Allowing the dough to rest in a warm environment for 30 minutes is crucial, as this lets the yeast activate and the gluten relax. You can create a warm place by preheating your oven to its lowest setting for just a few minutes, then turning it off. This offers a gentle warmth ideal for fermentation. When the dough has doubled in size, it’s ready for shaping and that delightful heart form.

Choosing Your Toppings

Customization is part of what makes this heart-shaped pizza so special! While the fresh mozzarella provides rich creaminess, you can switch it up by using other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of a bite, try using sharp cheddar or pepper jack. For a lighter pizza, consider using a mix of mozzarella with low-fat options, but be warned that these cheeses may not melt as beautifully.

Fresh basil is an iconic topping that enhances the pizza’s flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, feel free to use dried basil or even arugula after baking for a fresh finish. Also, don’t hesitate to get creative with additional toppings—sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach can be great. Just remember not to overload it too much, as this can cause the dough to become soggy during baking.

Ingredients

For the pizza dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
3/4 cup warm water

For the toppings

1 cup marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Oregano, for garnish
Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Form a well in the center and add olive oil and warm water. Mix until a dough forms and knead for about 5 minutes. Let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Shape the dough

Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface into a heart shape. Make sure to leave the edges slightly thicker for a crust.

Add the toppings

Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet. Spread marinara sauce over the base, then layer on the sliced mozzarella. Top with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Bake the pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your heart-shaped creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the pizza on it. You can also experiment with different toppings like pepperoni or vegetables to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions

Once your heart-shaped pizza emerges from the oven with its golden crust and bubbling cheese, let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the cheese to set slightly, making for cleaner cuts and an aesthetically pleasing presentation. Serve it with a side of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad topped with lemon juice to balance the richness of the pizza.

For an extra touch of romance, you could pair this pizza with a nice light red wine or sparkling water infused with citrus. Even a delectable dessert, like chocolate-dipped strawberries, could cap the meal and maintain the heart-themed atmosphere.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers after your special night, storing your heart-shaped pizza correctly can keep it tasty for days. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the slices—just make sure to freeze them flat first, and then stack them with parchment paper in between.

When reheating, avoid using a microwave as this can make the crust chewy. Instead, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pizza directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 8–10 minutes. This ensures the crust remains crispy while the cheese reheats evenly, providing a nearly fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly if you want to save time.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Simply top your pizza with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach instead of meat.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix in cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or goat cheese for added flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.